Today Atlantans woke up to the sound of crackling thunder and rain. We’ve had a relatively wet winter so far here in ATL, but today is definitely one of the rainiest days so far.
11Alive News reports that there is a severe weather warning throughout the day. They say, “At 8:15 a.m., a tornado warning was issued for Atlanta, East Point and areas including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport until 8:45 a.m. It also includes parts of DeKalb and Clayton counties.”
The severe weather continues into the afternoon, however, with 11Alive reporting, “A flood was warning issued until 2 p.m. for Fulton County, Clayton County, DeKalb County, as well as Carroll, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Harris, Heard, Henry, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup and Upson counties.”
A flash flood alert is also in affect for the North Georgia area.
What should I do about this?
If possible, try not to drive in severe weather conditions. Try your best to stay home and not travel. If you do have to be on the roads today, make sure to drive very carefully and pay special attention to your surroundings.
There is also a chance of strong winds all afternoon, and power outages throughout the area. Pay attention for fallen trees in the road or other debris that might make driving dangerous.
Charge your phone and other electronic devices, and if your power does go out, limit the amount of times you open your refrigerator and freezer doors to keep the cold air in.
The storm in other parts:
This storm system is predicted to affect the whole east coast, with a tornado already touching down in Fort Lauderdale earlier. CNN reports that more than 160 million people across the US will be affected.
Be safe out there today, Atlanta.